Advocating for effective, humane, and therapeutic treatment in institutional settings

The Treatment Facilities Program advocates for facilities that effectively deliver treatment in humane and therapeutic conditions, in the most integrated manner possible, with effective and timely discharge planning that is consistent with available community services. This program focuses on facilities that provide treatment to 16 or more individuals. This may include hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, Residential Habilitation Centers, enhanced services facilities, and immigration detention facilities.

Program Updates

Now Hiring: Impact Litigation Attorney

March 16, 2023DRW’s Legal Advocacy Team seeks a litigation attorney with a demonstrated interest in conducting impact litigation and other systemic advocacy to enforce the legal rights of individuals suffering from abuse, neglect, or other human and civil rights violations. This position will require a licensed attorney, or an individual who will soon become a licensed attorney, with the ability to conduct systemic investigations, develop complex advocacy strategies, and represent both classes and individuals. Learn more now.

Civil discharge settlement agreement

December 16, 2022On December 2, 2022, after nearly a year of negotiations, Disability Rights Washington finalized a settlement agreement with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services and Health Care Authority to address state hospital discharge delays, and better ensure that people are not confined in expensive, institutional settings longer than necessary.

Rainier School Case filed in September – (G.G. et al. v Meneses et al.)

October 4, 2022The Rainier School is a large state-run, residential institution in rural Pierce County. It is a dangerous place to live. The mistreatment and neglect within its walls have maimed, hospitalized, and killed residents. Learn more about this case here.

DRW Amicus brief highlights the risks and dangers of involuntary inpatient civil commitment

September 21, 2022Disability Rights Washington, the ACLU of Washington, the Washington Defender Association, and the King County Department of Assigned Counsel have filed an Amicus Curiae (Friend of the Court) brief in the Washington State Supreme Court. Learn more here.

More program updates